Erb’s Palsy Treatments and Recovery

Erb's palsy is a tragically common condition that is often the result of birth injury. People with this condition may be afflicted by limited mobility or even paralysis. While an individual with Erb's palsy can live a full and happy life, she or he may need some help along the way.

Erb's palsy occurs when an infant's brachial plexus (a nerve bundle in the shoulder) is damaged during delivery.

Surgery may be necessary to correct this birth trauma if it is severe, or does not heal in 3 to 4 months. This surgery can take several forms, and will focus on repairing the damaged nerve. For instance, the surgeons may graft a healthy nerve in order to repair the damaged one.

Erb's palsy can also give rise to secondary conditions in the joints of the affected arm. These can cause problems like muscle imbalance, and may require separate treatments. The nature of the treatment depends on the problem, and may include some of the following:

• Arm correction
• Muscle or tendon transfer
• Joint fusion or capsule release surgery

Rehabilitation is often a necessary follow-up to the procedure.

You should know that Erb's palsy is almost always caused by doctor error. No child should have to endure the pain and suffering associated with this condition. If your child's birth injury, such as Erb's palsy, was caused by medical malpractice, you may be entitled to receive compensation to help pay for your child's medical treatment through a birth injury lawsuit.

For more information about Erb's Palsy, read our library article Erb's Palsy and Medical Malpractice.

Birth injuries may require long-term or even life-long medical care for your child. If you believe medical malpractice may have resulted in your child's birth injuries, contact an experienced Louisville birth injury attorney at Gray and White Law at (502) 637-6000 or (800) 637-6033 for advice regarding your child's Kentucky birth injury case.